In a field known for seeking out the next new technology, barcoding has long been established as tool for retailers to reduce errors and streamline operations.  The familiar technology is getting a new facelift, however, and the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) and AgGateway are working together to host a free, one-hour webinar on the topic.  The first session will be April 13 from 3:00 pm-4:00 pm ET, followed by a repeat session on April 22 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am ET.

The webinar will focus on basic resources and first steps for those interested in barcoding and eConnectivity, especially in the area of seed.

“Nothing is more central to the effectiveness of a supply chain than the ability to collect and transmit accurate, actionable and timely data. Barcoding technology provides this level of real-time efficiency, accuracy and connectivity,” said Marcia Rhodus, Retail Business Solutions Specialist at Monsanto and the lead for AgGateway’s Auto Identification Data Capture (AIDC) Task Force.

Daren Coppock, ARA President & CEO, added, “Uniform and consistent barcoding standards will be a big help to ag retailers in efficiently managing inventory, implementing eConnectivity, and meeting the evolving needs of farmers and consumers.”

The webinar is designed for ag retail decision-makers. Several seed industry leaders and ag retailers participating in the AIDC Task Force will provide a quick, fact-filled overview of barcoding’s benefits and how a retailer – or its software providers and suppliers, can get started. Given barcoding’s significant eBusiness benefits, AgGateway’s AIDC Task Force has compiled numerous resources – including an ROI calculator and testimonials – to make it easier for companies to begin barcoding now. These can be found at the AIDC Task Force page of www.AgGateway.org.

The webinar will include a time for questions.  Register now for either time; both sessions are the same.